10 Essential Oil Recipes to Inspire Creativity

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10 Essential Oil Recipes to Inspire Creativity

Get your creative self moving!

Get your creative self moving!

 

Are you someone who has a creative job or profession, or are you a budding poet, artist, writer or musician? Whoever you are, and regardless of what you do on a daily basis, sometimes it’s hard to come up with original ideas and tap into the never-ending creative flow of the universe. Are you studying and need to write essays or are you entering a local art competition? Maybe it’s getting started that is the issue or maybe you need extra juice to get your project finished. Well fear no more, here are some essential oils recipes to help you dodge your stagnating mind, and open you to possibility.

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Basil – open your mind and third eye

Rosemary – stimulate your brain and remember your true creative self

Ylang Ylang – release anger and frustration

Cardamom – generate flow of qi throughout your body

Petitgrain – access your creative potential

—————————————————————————————————————–

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Good Times Come to Me Now”

A chant for the happiness to come on in –

Mandarin                           8 drops

Lemongrass                      8 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan      6 drops

Patchouli                           3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“1, 2, 3 GO”

Just start –

Juniper          10 drops

May Chang     8 drops

Nutmeg          5 drops

Wintergreen    2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Purple Vibrations”

Access the faster moving colour vibrations –

Lavender           5 drops

Black Spruce     8 drops

Orange              8 drops

Palmarosa        4 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Hmmmmmmmmmm”

Start wondering, daydreaming, and something will come to you –

Rosewood       10 drops

Clary Sage         5 drops

Pine                   5 drops

Peru Balsam       5 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

3. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

Eucalyptus – wow wake up! Cleanse the old energy

Cypress – move away from your ego into spirit

——————————————————————————————————————

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Pure Creation”

Jasmine 3%  a few drops straight from the bottle * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

“Warmth and Movement”

Ginger                1 drop

Pink Grapefruit   2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“I am a Champion!”

Positive self talk will help open any creative blockages –

Sandalwood Indian   1 drop

Bergamot                 2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“The Little Engine that Could”

One step at a time will lead to a finished project –

Rosemary      1 drop

Melissa 3%    3 drops     * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

Caraway Essential Oil – What’s That Used For?

Caraway botanical drawing from Kohler's Medizinal Pflanzen

Caraway botanical drawing from Kohler’s Medizinal Pflanzen

Caraway essential oil is steam distilled from the caraway seed of the plant Carum carvi. This belongs to the Umbellifrae (also known as Apiacae) family and the genus Carum. Other similar plants belonging to the same family are fennel, parsley, carrot, angelica, anise, celery, chervil, coriander, cumin, dill, and parsnip, just to name a few.

I have never used this oil in my practice because it doesn’t have many traditional uses in Aromatherapy and other more common oils are usually used for therapeutic value, like fennel. I couldn’t find a typical analysis, which gives the breakdown of chemical constituents in an oil, but I have found some basic information naming the major active ingredients.

Carvone - pic via www.scienceforums.net

Carvone – pic via http://www.scienceforums.net

According to Wikipedia:

“The fruits, usually used whole, have a pungent, anise-like flavor and aroma that comes from essential oils, mostly carvone and limonene.[10] Anethole, generally regarded as a minor product in the essential oil of this species, has also been found to be a major component.”

 

And from a paper 1994 UPDATE ON ESSENTIAL OILS IN SASKATCHEWAN SPICE CROPS by F. Sosulsk$, A.E. Slinkard and G. Arganosa:

“Carvone contributes the typical aroma of caraway seed and the carvone to limonene ratio in the essential oil should be 60:40”

 

Limonene pic via dennou-k.gaia.h.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Limonene

It is important to note that even when we have a chemical breakdown of an oil, we must consider it as a whole and remember the old adage “the whole is greater than the sum of it’s parts”. This means we can expect an oil to behave in a certain way when we find out what molecules it contains, but there will also be a unique signature that lends itself to other properties too.

Caraway essential oil could be used for digestion, as for fennel and aniseed. Regulating menses and attendant pain could also be helped by caraway oil, but I would probably just stick with fennel. In these instances I would dilute a drop or two in some carrier oil and rub all over the stomach and lower back. I would also use caraway for coughs and lung problems (especially catarrh) in a steam inhalation

 

Caraway seeds - they look like fennel seeds don'y they? pic via bhleurope.blogspot.com

Caraway seeds – they look like fennel seeds don’t they? pic via bhleurope.blogspot.com

According to Aromatherapist Danielle Ryman, fossilized caraway seeds were found in Neolithic dwellings in Switzerland, and in Mesolithic sites, which means that it was in use up to 8,000 years ago. She also says the Ancient Egyptians used the spice in religious rituals, (like many aromatic plants and flowers) and in cooking to make foods like bread and onions more digestible.

So it seems the modest caraway seed has similar properties to other Umbellifrae seeds and you can check out my article Star Anise, Aniseed and Fennel Essential Oils – What’s the Difference? to understand more about those oils -their similarities and differences.

10 Essential Oil Recipes to Help Deal with Road Rage and Traffic

Traffic!

Traffic!

When looking for inspiration for articles one of my readers suggested I apply the 10 Recipes series to minimising road rage and dealing with traffic. Great idea so here goes.

If you are someone that has to deal with traffic congestion on a daily basis, and gets frustrated by it, then these oils may be for you.

Or, are you someone that just can’t handle what others do on the road and then completely freak out about it? Road rage? It seems sad that we now have a widely accepted term for this anger on the roads and that’s not good at all. This is just a reflection of how angry we are as a society, and how we are not coping with modern day life. You definitely need some oils.

Look people, just calm down ok? Release anger, and have a more “go with the flow” attitude when driving. If you can’t do that then stop driving. If you really hate the traffic on your way to work try and find solutions that put you in a less stressful situation (public transport, car pooling).

If you must drive and tend to get a bit stressed then try these 10 recipes to start your day;

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

Peppermint – clarity, happiness

Tea Tree – cleanse your aura and energy

Mandarin – happiness, allowing

Lemongrass – stimulating and refreshing, happiness

——————————————————————————————————————

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

By doing this in the morning, while using your good intention, you will start your day with scented positivity. Allow this feeling to infuse good vibes all day long.

“Patience is a Virtue”

Sure is –

Lemon           3 drops

Frankincense  3 drops

Patchouli        2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“I Wonder What Good Things Are Coming My Way?”

Open up to possibility –

Lavender                      4 drops

Petitgrain                      2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    2 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

“I Heart You Even Though You Didn’t Let Me Merge”

Ylang Ylang         3 drops

Orange               2 drops

Rosewood          2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Repeat the Happy Mantra”

Lemongrass      3 drops

Peru Balsam      2 drops

Spearmint          2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Smile and Wave, Smile and Wave”

Let others drive the way they drive, practice being kind anyway –

Basil               6 drops

Mandarin       12 drops

Lemon Myrtle   7 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“1, 2, 3”

Count to 3 and then breathe deeply, release anger –

Juniper           8 drops

Lime              10 drops

Vanilla CO2     6 drops

Vetiver             1 drop * see my article for more info on CO2 extracts What are CO2 Extracts in the World of Aromatherapy?

——————————————————————————————————————

“Bubble of Love”

You’re in control of your little space (and headspace) –

Bergamot        10 drops

Black Spruce     7 drops

Marjoram           6 drops

Clary Sage        2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

 

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Sniff and Go”

A quick natural perfume for your wrists to sniff in the middle of traffic to help release anxiety –

Neroli 3%    a few drops straight from the bottle

* see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

“Sniff and Go Too”

You are the benevolent Queen –

Rose 3%  a few drops straight from the bottle

* see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

 

 

 

 

Essential Oils that Inspire Love, Truth and Acceptance

What is love?

What is love?

Ok here’s the thing people.

Be kind to each other and all the animals too.

Accept your fellow humans as a reflection of yourself.

Move your energetic vibration to peace.

Do it now because we’ll all be dead in the blink of an eye, and if not you, then who will help the evolution of our species?

How?

Well use essential oils of course! Throw in meditation, mindfulness and empathy for every living entity, and I think we’ll make it.

One drop leads to many ripples...

One drop leads to many ripples…

Many of you already feel this way, so I’m writing this in the hope that I will reach someone new and bring them into our fold. We must keep talking about the future, we must accept we have the power to drive consciousness to new multidimensional levels, and we must allow our brilliance to change the way we have structured life on the planet.

It’s important that you treat yourself first, and then emanate the qualities of the oil from your energetic body. It’s never about treating someone else unless they ask for help. So with that in mind here are some recipes for your own little daily perfumes to help the evolution of humanity. Yep, really. One drop of lavender could save the world.

Chinese tea cup - perfect for a little perfume magic

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

I love the following oils to support our journey;

Love

Love

LOVE

Love is a word used for many things, including the one positive force that connects us all. It could also be aligned with the 99.999999% space around the atoms of our cells and the universe at large. It is an emotion of feeling good. Keep sending it out to those that need your help whether you know them or not. You can do this by starting your day with a little scented message to yourself –

Patchouli

* peace, grounding, mother earth, collectiveness, wholeness

Patchouli       1 drop

Cypress        2 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

Rose (usually in a 3% blend)

* nurturing, self love, softness and kindness

Rose 3%      3 drop  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Petitgrain      1 drop

—————————————————————————————————————–

Truth

Truth

2. TRUTH

What is the truth? It’s the same as love. One love.

Frankincense

* “frank” incense is the scent of truth, deep breathing, connection to everything

Frankincense     2 drops

Rosewood         1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Sage

* speak the truth, abundance, wisdom

Sage               1 drop

Palmarosa       1 drop

Lavender         1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Accept you are part of a simple (yet complex) existence

Accept you are part of a simple (yet complex) existence

3. ACCEPTANCE

Acceptance is the emotion of the NOW. If there is only one NOW, allow acceptance to flood your aura with its subtle power, and when you do, all barriers to life will melt away. By accepting things you are not giving up desires or wishes for things to change; you are simply stepping into the slipstream that binds us all together.

Lavender

You knew I’d have to say lavender at some stage didn’t you?

* solidarity, consolidation, acceptance

Lavender                       1 drop

Orange                          1 drop

Sandalwood Australian  1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Jasmine (usually in a 3% blend)

* remove anxiety, immersion in the creative forces of the NOW

Jasmine 3%     2 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Juniper            1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

 

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

My New Book – “Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils”

Books are cool! E or the old fashioned kind

Books are cool! E or the old-fashioned kind

I’m happy to say my new book is being designed by the publishers now and will be ready for sale soon.

In my book I write about aromatherapy and how essential oils can help you find your purpose in life.

Essential oils are for all seasons

Essential oils are for all seasons

I talk about oils that can bring you HAPPINESS.

Access your spirituality with essential oils

Access your spirituality with essential oils

Find out which oils enhance your SPIRITUALITY.

Love rules

Love rules

Make a love potion with the oils on the LOVE list.

Aura

Aura

CLEANSE your space and your energy field with essential oils.

Clean with essential oils too, and have an aromatherapy treatment at the same time!

Is the fountain of youth real?

Is the fountain of youth real?

Access YOUTH and ABUNDANCE with essential oils. How? You’ll find out very soon.

Lavender is unassuming yet powerful - pic via fanpop.com

Lavender is unassuming yet powerful – pic via fanpop.com

Which oils can give you strength and courage? This and much more will be revealed in my new book “Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils”.

Thank you for reading my blog and sticking with me.

Peace!

Peace!

Peace my brothers and sisters.

copyright suzanne

10 Recipes with Marjoram Essential Oil – Oreganum marjorana

Marjoram - pic via www.podgardening.co.nz

Marjoram – pic via http://www.podgardening.co.nz

Marjoram is an essential oil I use frequently with clients as it has a beautiful scent and some wonderful qualities. It hails from the Lamiacae family (along with many other herbs), the genus Oreganum and the species marjorana. It has a much more pleasant scent than oregano and therefore has more uses in aromatherapy.

In aromatherapy today marjoram is used for –

* aching and sore muscles

* general body pain and as a warming tonic

* to help someone deal with grief and as a sedative for distraught emotions

* to help with falling asleep

* to counteract stress and generally for calming and soothing

* to reduce coughing

Let’s try out 10 recipes –

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

Marjoram in the shower will help you unwind at the end of a very stressful day, or give you warming shower before bed on a cold night.

——————————————————————————————————————

 

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

 “Planning My Day”

Start out nice and calm –

Marjoram     1 drop

Bergamot    2 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

“Kindness”

Marjoram    1 drop

Nutmeg       1 drop

Mandarin     1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

“Warm Heart”

Marjoram    1 drop

Rose 3%     3 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

—————————————————————————————————————–

“Serenity Now”

Marjoram                    1 drop

Roman Chamomile     2 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Lavender                     1 drop

—————————————————————————————————————–

Classic oil burner with a twist pic via top3.com.au

Classic oil burner with a twist – pic via top3.com.au

 

3. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“HEAD.ACHE”

Please go away –

Marjoram     8 drops

Lavender      8 drops

Peppermint  5 drops

Orange        4 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Chill Out Sunday Sessions”

Marjoram       6 drops

Petitgrain      10 drops

Peru Balsam   6 drops

Patchouli        3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

4. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Achey Breaky Body”

Marjoram     3 drops

Ginger         2 drops

Rosemary   2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Pre Yoga”

Marjoram       3 drops

Lemongrass   3 drops

Black Pepper  1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

“Apre Run”

Marjoram    3 drops

Rosewood  3 drops

Fennel         2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Essential Oils for Summer Wellness

Summer is helped by essential oils

Summer is helped by essential oils

As promised, here’s a summer guide to essential oils for all my northern hemisphere buddies. There are lots of cooling oils and these can be used so well in summer to take the heat off your skin and cool down your energetic flow.

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

1. Lavender

Why?

* perfect for sunburn when diluted with a carrier oil. Lavender is great for all burns and I apply a drop direct for a small heat burn coming from the toaster or stove or anything you can think of

* takes the itch or sting out of an insect bite

* helps relax you and may help induce sleep on a hot summer’s night

* brings solidarity and strength so you can get all the summer fun things you want squished into a day

The divine scent of the rose is not the only thing it has going for it

The divine scent of the rose is not the only thing it has going for it

2. Rose

Why?

* wonderful for cooling the body in an oil, and even rosewater has cooling effects and that’s why in Indian cuisine you can drink a rosewater lassi, made not only for the beautiful taste but for helping the body deal with heat – delicious! Remember NOT to drink the essential oil though.

* it’s a self-nurturing oil so remember to treat your self first and then everyone will benefit – just like Cleopatra did!

* great for a facial oil if you’ve had a bit too much sun (for all the reasons above)

* usually comes (in retail) in a 3% blend in jojoba ready to use direct on your skin as a perfume (see my article on 3% blends in jojoba for more info)

Hairy vetiver root

Hairy vetiver root that makes the essential oil

3. Vetiver

Why?

* called the “Oil of Tranquility” in India this oil is not only very grounding and calming, it is also another oil that can be used to cool the body down

* only use a drop or two in any formula as it is so strong it can take over any of the other oils you have used

* wonderful to cool down over-heated kids throwing tantrums – use a drop on yourself and cuddle your child as they begin to settle

Bergamot - pic via globalhealingcenter.com

Bergamot – pic via globalhealingcenter.com

 

4. Bergamot

Why?

* this oil has a fresh summery citrus scent and can help release tension and anxiety

* wonderful for a body oil blend to nourish your skin, but only use AFTER sun not before, as it has some photo toxic properties

* brings an aura of cool and calm

A jasmine blossom in Sydney

A jasmine blossom in Sydney

5. Jasmine

Why?

* enhances summer sensuality

* brings a beautiful feminine scent to your aura and helps confidence in your sexuality – wear it as a scent when you go out for a dance and watch your magic unfold

* usually comes (in retail) in a 3% blend in jojoba ready to use direct on your skin as a perfume (see my article on 3% blends in jojoba for more info)

Delicious lemongrass

Delicious lemongrass

6. Lemongrass

Why?

* a great insect repellent either for cleaning, vapourising or wearing on your body in an oil blend

* lemon myrtle and citronella can also be used in place of lemongrass to ward off the biters

* gives a fresh boost to your energy if you are lagging in the heat

 

If you have a few people in your home, especially if you have kids, I recommend you diffuse oils in your home at night during summer, not only to create a lovely scented atmosphere, but to lend a little bit of cooling anti-bacterial magic to the mix. When using essential oils, remember they exist to not only help you create a wonderful feeling, but they can help you feel a little better, more comfortable and a little cooler too.

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

 

Essential Oils for Winter Wellness

Warm up in winter with essential oils

Warm up in winter with essential oils

It must seem strange to all my northern hemisphere readers that I’d be writing about this subject now. Well it is winter for us in the southern hemisphere, so next week I’ll do an article on essential oils for summer so you guys don’t miss out.

What essential oils to use for winter …… hmmm?

Flowering rosemary in my client's garden

Flowering rosemary in my client’s garden

1. Rosemary

Why?

* Stimulates blood circulation, good for those with cold hands and feet (used in a body oil)

* Works against catarrh and congestion (used in a body oil or a drop in a steam inhalation)

* Works a pain reliever for sore muscles and for aching rheumatic joints (used in a body oil)

* Stimulates the brain and memory so it can wake you up on a cold winter’s day (used in a steam inhalation or a shower steam)

Warming, spicy ginger

Warming, spicy ginger

2. Ginger

Why?

* Warming to the digestive fire and the body in general (used in a body oil)

* Alleviates catarrh (used in a body oil or steam inhalation)

* Soft and gentle to treat people who are very sick with a cold or flu and may help stimulate appetite (diffuse in the sick room or use as a body oil)

Lemon myrtle flower- pic via www.lemonmyrtle.com.au

Lemon myrtle flower- pic via http://www.lemonmyrtle.com.au

3. Lemon Myrtle

Why?

* highly anti-bacterial and anti-viral (diffuse this oil in the home or office to help prevent YOU from getting what THEY have)

* use lemongrass or lemon as a substitute if you can’t find lemon myrtle oil

 

 

Eucalyptus globulus is the most commonly produced essential oil although there are quite a few - pic via www.wildseedtasmania.com.au

Eucalyptus globulus is the most commonly produced essential oil although there are quite a few – pic via http://www.wildseedtasmania.com.au

4. Eucalyptus

Why?

* the number one oil to break down mucous in the sinuses and lungs (used in a steam inhalation and diffuse in the sick room)

* an expectorant (used in a steam inhalation)

* generally helps easier breathing (diffuse in the sick room) and may also help throat inflammation

 

Sage - use in small amounts

Sage – use in small amounts

5. Sage

* analgesic for a sore throat (used as a body oil or a drop in a steam inhalation)

* Clary sage can also be used for a sore throat (used as a body oil or a drop in a steam inhalation)

Ah lovely lavender

Ah lovely lavender

6. Lavender

Why?

* general aches and pains from the cold and/or sickness (used in a body oil or diffused in the sick room)

* analgesic for a sore throat  (a drop in a steam inhalation)

* analgesic in general for headaches and other inflammatory symptoms (diffuse in the sick room and in a body oil)

The fennel plant

The fennel plant

7. Fennel

Why?

* helps with catarrh and lung congestion acting as an expectorant (use in a body oil)

* acts as an analgesic in coughs and colds (used in a body oil)

* digestive tonic to calm an upset stomach (diffuse in the sick room or in a body oil)

 

As you can see these oils can help you feel a bit better if you get sick in winter, or warm you up when your feet are freezing, or help clear the air of unwanted germs.

If you have a few people in your home, especially if you have kids, I recommend you diffuse oils in your home at night during winter not only to create a lovely scented atmosphere, but to lend a little bit of anti-bacterial magic to the mix. Of course when using essential oils they will not necessarily cure an infection or disease, but they can help you feel a little better and more comfortable too.

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention

copyright suzanne

 

 

10 Recipes with Frankincense Essential Oil- Boswellia carterii

Frankincense resin in it's organic form is then distilled into an essential oil

Frankincense resin in its organic form is then distilled into an essential oil

Ah frankincense it’s a good oil! It’s an oil that helps you breathe deeply, relax and connect with your spirit. It’s an oil that can help skin looking and feeling younger. It’s an oil that’s been around for thousands of years. It’s an oil of truth.

Frankincense has a fine scent and I have written more about it previously with my article ‘Frankincense is the Scent of Truth’. It is from the family Burseraceae and the genus Boswellia.

Many years ago a friend of mine (he’s not around any longer, hi Peter!) was having a really bad asthma attack and was getting very anxious. He called me and I went to him immediately with a vapouriser and some Frankincense oil. I sat him down next to the stream of vapour and within 5 minutes he was better and after 20 minutes he could breathe normally. He also felt much more relaxed and I left the set up with him for a few weeks so he could access the treatment whenever he needed it.

Frankincense has many applications so let’s get into some recipes –

A clay face mask is the best and most natural clarifyng mask. pic vis chiclooking.com

A clay face mask is the best and most natural clarifying mask. pic via chiclooking.com

1. Face Mask

Usually add 1 or 2 drops of oil to some clay and add water, floral water or hydrosol. Keep the mask on for 5 minutes then rinse off with cool water. Mist with a hydrosol or floral water and moisturise.

I would use 2 drops of frankincense in pink clay to rejuvenate your skin, help tone oilier skin and to treat acne.

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Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

2. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Do this with frankincense to help you relax and gather your energy. It will give you a chance to stop and catch you breath too.

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The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

3. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Peace and Quiet”

Frankincense   2 drops

Lavender          1 drop

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“I’m Ready for the Day”

Take a deep breath and go!

Frankincense   1 drop

Neroli 3%        3 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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“Sweet”

Life IS sweet –

Frankincense   2 drops

Peru balsam    1 drop

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“Now is the Best Time”

Do it now!

Frankincense      1 drop

Lemongrass       1 drop

Rose Geranium   1 drop

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Check this out - an oil burner made from a can - pic via www.instructables.com

Check this out – an oil burner made from a can – pic via http://www.instructables.com

4. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Sunday Night Settle Down”

You’ve got school in the morning!

Frankincense    10 drops

Orange               9 drops

Marjoram            6 drops

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“Fresh Vibe”

A great blend for when you’ve finished cleaning the house –

Frankincense       10 drops

Lime                      6 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   5 drops

May Chang            4 drops

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Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Renew”

A blend to feel hydrated with a new outlook –

Frankincense  3 drops

Palmarosa    3 drops

Lavender        2 drops

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“It’s All About Me Tonight”

Shower off the day and oil yourself –

Frankincense    2 drops

Ylang Ylang      2 drops

Mandarin          3 drops

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Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas.See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

Essential Oils and Children – Do They Go Together?

Last week I wrote an article on babies and essential oils “Essential Oils and Babies – Do They Go Together?” and similar rules apply to kids too.

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“Babies – only use essential oils in their environment – not on them!

 

Can you use essential oils on babies?

 

Short answer = YES – but not on them directly.

 

Long Answer =  YES but you must use caution and follow these rules.”

suzannerbanks

 

So when it comes to kids, 3 years to about 12 years old, I would stick with similar recommendations. The ratio of essential oils for kids and in pregnancy, and on the face,lav is half than that of an adult. See my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3” for standard adult ratios.

It is better to use essential oils in the environment of children as they respond really well to the scent as it goes to work through their brain. As children get older you can use more variety of essential oils compared to babies, but in general I’d always stick with lavender and a few others.

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

I would apply these same rules to kids as I would to babies, paying particular attention to keeping them out of reach –

* do not use essential oils, diluted or neat, on your child unless you seek medical advice.

* do not put essential oils into the bath, diluted or neat.

* always wash you hands before you touch your child if you’ve been using essential oils

* keep bottles of essential oils away from reach, as even a couple of drops may hurt them

Essential oils can be poisonous if ingested so make sure kids cannot get to the bottles.

 

ouch!

ouch!

 

Cuts and Scrapes

I have always used this method with all my nieces and nephews – clean the wound with saline or warm water (or whatever you usually use), then put 1 drop of lavender onto the gauze/absorbent part of the band aid. You don’t have to worry about the oils going directly into the skin and stinging as it just provides a tiny source of anti-inflammatory action and some minor pain relief.

 

Kids Crying and Whingeing – Stress and Sleep Blends

I would put a drop of vetiver oil on myself and then cuddle my child, as it is a very powerful stress reliever and a grounding agent.

You could also make an aura cleansing mist, and mist around your child (avoid eye contact), or in the car before you put them in. This also works as as energetic space cleansing mist for their room and your house too.

 

Any mist bottle will do - although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

Any mist bottle will do – although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

 

Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 12 drops of oil (usually 25 drops of oil for an adult)

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Anytime Chill Out”

Lavender      4 drops

Orange         4 drops

Petitgrain      3 drops

Vetiver          1 drop


“Close Your Eyes”

To help induce relaxation and sleep – try misting a little on the sheets –

Lavender      4 drops

Mandarin      4 drops

Marjoram      4 drops


 

Fun times - pic ia ksoo.com

Fun times – pic ia ksoo.com

 

Some oils suitable for children are the premium oils already presented in a 3% jojoba blend. For more info on these blends see my article on 3% blends in jojoba. You may use a little of these oils on them but also use your intuition.

Depending the age of your child I would probably use a few drops and then add the same amount, or more,  of carrier oil to get to a softer ratio.

You can –

* use on the temples, back of the neck and wrists to help your child feel better and cool the body in a fever

* use few drops of your blend on your own hands, then stroke the forehead, chest and whatever you think you need to do to calm them down

* apply a few drops of your blend to you hands an gently stroke the stomach chest and lower back for stomach pain and sorrow

Rose  – cool the body, nurture their spirit

Neroli – to help relieve stress and anxiety

Roman Chamomile – great for stomach cramps this oil has a beautiful scent and may even help with sleep and for generally relaxing

 

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series - puzhen.com

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series – puzhen.com

 

Other oils for the diffuser or vapouriser could include –

bergamot – relieve tension, inspire happiness

orange, mandarin – kids love the smell of these oils, so they are already working on their attitude through their brains – but once again don’t use these oils on their bodies!

frankincense – great for asthmatics as it inspires deeper breathing and total relaxation

peppermint – to relieve nausea in the sick room and to freshen the energy

*******

I have used essential oils on all the kids in my family in some form or another for the past 20 years. Always use caution. Always use your intuition and always seek out more information if you are not sure.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013